5th graders to attend camp

By Donnie A. Lucas

The fifth grade class at Nancy Smith Elementary will spend three days next week studying a range of science curriculum at Camp Grady Spruce Outdoor Education Program.

The 34 students and four sponsors will spend three days and two nights at the camp at Possum Kingdom Lake learning about sciences ranging from geology to biology to astronomy.

“Fifth grade science covers a wide range,” science teacher Leslie Neve said. “This camp is based on the TEKS that are covered on the STAAR test for fifth graders.”

The group will be gone Nov. 14 through 16.

Principal John Gallagher said that skills such as fire building and shelter making will also be part of the experience.

The trip includes going to Devil’s Island.

“The kids will talk about what animals are on the island and how they got there,” Neve said. “We will also talk about what an island is and how it’s formed.”

She added that water and life cycles, and even astronomy, will be part of the classes, with one night dedicated to stargazing.”

In addition to Neve and Gallagher, teachers William Vaughan and Candy Balliew will be attending as sponsors.